A Lasting Legacy: Transforming the Future for Generations to Come

Cystic Fibrosis Canada is deeply grateful for the generosity of Erik and Birthe Andersen, whose dedication to the cystic fibrosis (CF) community spanned decades.  

Originally from Denmark, Erik and Birthe immigrated to Canada in the 1950s and built a life together filled with devotion and purpose. Their connection to cystic fibrosis was profoundly personal. Erik and Birthe’s two daughters, Elisabeth and Esther, were both diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Tragically, Elisabeth passed away at the age of three in 1955, and Esther at the age of fifteen in 1969.  

Despite their heartbreaking loss, they remained committed to supporting cystic fibrosis research and care. The pair became monthly donors to Cystic Fibrosis Canada and following Erik’s passing in 2009, Birthe continued their philanthropic efforts to change the outlook for a cystic fibrosis diagnosis.   

Erik and Birthe’s greatest hope was that one day, no family would face the heartbreak of losing a child to cystic fibrosis. To help drive progress towards that future, the Andersen’s left a transformational planned gift to Cystic Fibrosis Canada.  Their generosity leaves an incredible legacy and enables us to continue to forward advancements in research bringing us closer to a world without limits for people with cystic fibrosis.  

To honour their immense contribution, Cystic Fibrosis Canada has named The Erik and Birthe Andersen Senior Scientist Award in their memory.  This award supports groundbreaking cystic fibrosis research, carrying forward Erik and Birthe’s vision of a future where no family loses a loved one to cystic fibrosis.     

May is Leave a Legacy Month. Join us today in building a life without limits for individuals living with CF. 

By making a planned gift to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, your legacy will make a lasting impact. Whether through a bequest, charitable gift annuity, a trust or a life insurance policy, your final contribution will drive change for future generations.  

Contact yourlegacy@cysticfibrosis.ca or call 1-800-378-2233 to learn more about how you can make a lasting difference by structuring a planned gift that’s right for you.